Alcohol & Drug Abuse is a malady that has plagued mankind for generations, spreading its tentacles mainly amongst all classes of society. Addictions have affected millions of residents and destroyed untold amount of individuals and families.

While many people are involved in the production and trafficking of illicit drugs, many more are affected by the devastating social and economic consequences of this problem. Drug and alcohol abuse not only affects the abuser and his/her life, but also the lives of family members.

At the micro level, Alcohol and Drug Abuse breed hatred, jealousy and violence, lowers self-image, causes financial stresses, emotional trauma and tears families apart. These manifest further at the macro level by destabilizing peace and harmony in the society and nation at large.

In India, the problem of addiction is further aggravated by the lack of treatment and rehabilitation facilities.

Why Do People Drink or Use Drugs?

Many people feel that it is necessary to drink or experiment with drugs when at parties and social gatherings.

Some people drink or abuse drugs as a way to cope with the daily stress and tension from school or work, or to cope with other problems such as marital/family distress or even physical illness.

Alcohol and drugs may become a substitute for satisfying personal relationships, challenging work or self-fulfillment.

Some may use alcohol and drugs as a way to compensate for feelings of guilt, shyness or low self-esteem.

When drinking or drug use becomes a means for coping with life's problems it can turn into addiction. Unfortunately alcohol and some drugs have become more socially acceptable, and this makes it even easier for people to experiment at younger ages. In addition, alcohol and drugs are readily accessible to many of today's youth, which further increases the likelihood that they will use substances at some time.

Alcohol and Drugs is truly a curse to society. We should all come forward to tackle this menace to the best of our abilities.